Canon alla ottava

José Rodríguez Alvira

It is relatively easy to compose a canon at the octave by using a repetitive harmonic pattern. In the following example Konrad Max Kunz uses only 2 chords to create a canon:

Pachelbel's canon is a more elaborate example of the same method. The harmonic progression consists of 8 chords with a small variation in the seventh chord (marked in red). Both chords have a subdominant function and differ only in one note (E):

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

D major:

I

V

vi

iii

IV

I

ii6/5IV

V7

There are many examples of canons at the octave constructed in this way. However, the Canon alla ottava of Bach dispenses with this simple method and demonstrates a greater degree of complexity.